Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Hello, pumpkin lovers! 🍂 If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe are just what you need. They blend the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a crunchy crumble topping, making them a hit at any gathering. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a perfect way to enjoy those cozy evenings with family or friends.

These bars are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for busy weeknights or festive occasions. You can whip them up quickly and enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later. Trust me, once you try these bars, they will become one of your go-to fall desserts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy pumpkin filling topped with crunchy oats!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these bars ahead of time, making them ideal for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a breeze thanks to simple, wholesome ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dessert to life:

For the Crumble Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling.
• Switch up the nuts: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different flavor and crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
• Top with frosting: Drizzle with dairy-free cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat!

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Preheating ensures that your bars bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well mixed. This mixture will form your crumble base which adds texture and flavor to the bars.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Take half of the crumble mixture and evenly spread it into the prepared baking dish. Press down gently to create a firm base layer. This step is crucial as it holds everything together while providing a delicious foundation for your filling.

Step 4: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and fragrant; it’s what makes these bars so special!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

Pour the pumpkin filling over the crumble base in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface so every bite has that luscious filling.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle any remaining crumble mixture over the top of the pumpkin filling. If you like extra crunch, feel free to add chopped walnuts on top! This will give your bars a delightful texture contrast when baked.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. Keep an eye on them toward the end; you want that perfect balance between soft filling and crispy topping.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. This cooling time helps them firm up so they hold their shape beautifully when you serve them.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars! Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin works well, using roasted fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor and texture of your bars.

• Chill the dough: After mixing the crumble topping, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps it become even more crumbly and prevents it from spreading too much while baking.

• Check for doneness: Instead of relying solely on baking time, gently shake the pan. If the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center, it’s good to go!

• Let them cool completely: Patience pays off! Allowing your bars to cool completely before cutting ensures cleaner slices and a better overall texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can give an extra warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not just delicious; they also make for a visually appealing dessert that you can serve in various ways at gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this creamy alternative adds a light and fluffy touch that pairs perfectly with the richness of pumpkin.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling caramel sauce over each bar enhances sweetness and adds beautiful contrast in flavor and appearance.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top offers a warm aroma and an additional layer of spice.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: This warm beverage is perfect alongside your bars, bringing out the fall flavors with its own blend of spices.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream on the side provides a creamy contrast that’s delightful against the spiced pumpkin filling.
• Roasted pecans: Their crunchy texture complements the soft bars beautifully, adding a nutty element that enhances every bite.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the bars while adding color to your plate.

Enjoy making these easy fall dessert bars, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family—they’re sure to be a hit! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars are not just delicious, they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars!

Can I use pumpkin pie mix instead of pumpkin puree in Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

You can use pumpkin pie mix, but be sure to adjust the sugar and spices accordingly since it already contains sweeteners and seasonings.

How long do Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars last?

When stored properly, these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars will last for up to a week in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to three months.

Can I add other nuts or toppings to my Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even add chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Are these Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I make these bars vegan-friendly?

Yes! You can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) and use plant-based butter instead.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Pie Crumble Bars as much as I do! They capture all the warmth of fall and bring everyone together around the table. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or savoring them solo with your favorite drink, these bars are sure to please. Happy baking!